Cost of Living in Vietnam

The cost of living in Vietnam is remarkably low, making it an appealing destination for expats looking for an affordable yet enjoyable lifestyle. Both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a good balance between modern conveniences and budget-friendly expenses, with living costs about 60 percent lower than you’ll generally find in the US or UK.

Your living expenses in Vietnam will depend on your lifestyle, but you can enjoy a good life without spending a fortune. The largest dents in your monthly budget will be in the areas of housing, schooling, and Western foodstuffs. On the other hand, travel, phone, and internet costs are exceptionally low.

Like most countries, Vietnam has its fair share of temptations, such as the huge variety of electronic gadgets you can spend your hard-earned salary on. That said, with a little financial shrewdness, it’s easy to live comfortably and save at the same time. Many expats report being able to save significantly while maintaining a higher quality of life than they would in their home countries.

Cost of accommodation in Vietnam

Expats moving to Vietnam on a short-term basis will likely rent property rather than buy. The cost of accommodation in Vietnam varies depending on the standard of housing you require, as well as the location of the property.

Vietnam’s rental market is experiencing sustained demand, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with a significant boost in serviced apartments due to record international visitor numbers. Rapid economic growth, foreign investments, and new infrastructure developments continue to influence rental prices.

As a rule of thumb, housing closer to the city centre comes at a premium, while accommodation in outlying suburbs is more affordable. Remember to account for the cost of utilities in your monthly budget, which is usually charged over and above the rental fee.

Renting Accommodation and Utilities in Vietnam

Cost of transport in Vietnam

There are plenty of cost-effective ways to get around Vietnam. Negotiating the price of taxi and motorcycle taxi fares is common practice, so try not to be shy about doing so. You might not want to drive in Vietnam due to the chaotic conditions on the city streets. If you want a private vehicle, hiring a driver who knows the local roads can save you considerable stress.

For daily commuting, ride-hailing services like Grab dominate the market, providing car and motorbike transport options. Although routes and schedules may take time to get used to, public buses are also an economical alternative. The metro line in Hanoi is now operational, and Ho Chi Minh City’s first metro line opened in December 2024, connecting Ben Thanh Market to the Eastern Bus Terminal. A second line in HCMC is progressing. These developments, along with Vietnam’s expanding rail network and plans for high-speed rail connections with China, are making intercity travel increasingly convenient.

As a long-term resident, you can apply for a Vietnamese driver’s licence by converting your home country’s licence. Despite what you might hear, international driving permits are not legally recognised in Vietnam.

Getting Around in Vietnam

Cost of groceries in Vietnam

Grocery shopping in Vietnam offers expats plenty of options between traditional markets, modern supermarkets, and increasingly popular online options. If you’re looking for the best value, local wet markets provide fresh produce, seafood, and meats at lower prices than supermarkets. These markets remain an important part of Vietnamese daily life and allow for some negotiation on pricing.

For convenience and international brands, you can shop at major supermarket chains like Big C, Lotte Mart, and Co.opmart. These hypermarkets stock a wide variety of imported goods, but prices are often higher than in local markets. You might want to mix and match, purchasing fresh produce at markets while relying on supermarkets for packaged and speciality items. Convenience stores such as Circle K and FamilyMart are widely available, making it easy to grab essentials on the go.

Online grocery shopping has grown rapidly, with platforms like Tiki, Lazada, and Shopee offering increasingly competitive grocery delivery services. Major supermarket chains have also jumped into e-commerce, with many offering same-day delivery options for fresh and frozen foods.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Vietnam

Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, offering expats a diverse range of dining experiences. Whether you’re indulging in street food or dining at high-end restaurants, there’s something to suit every taste. Local eateries and food stalls provide delicious, affordable Vietnamese dishes, making it easy to enjoy authentic cuisine without overspending.

For nightlife enthusiasts, Vietnam’s entertainment scene is alive and well. Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 buzzes with energy after dark. Hanoi’s nightlife offers a more relaxed vibe, and the party typically doesn’t go as late. Both cities boast a mix of rooftop bars, traditional Bia Hoi (fresh beer) spots, and lively nightclubs.

If you prefer outdoor activities, Vietnam offers numerous options. You can go trekking in Sapa, explore caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, or enjoy water sports like kitesurfing along the coastline. The country’s rich history is also reflected in its many museums, temples, and cultural festivals.

While international restaurants and upscale bars can be expensive, local brands and traditional Vietnamese entertainment are super budget-friendly, allowing you to experience the best of the country without breaking the bank.

Lifestyle in Ho Chi Minh City

Cost of education in Vietnam

The cost of education in Vietnam depends on the type of institution and location. Compared to many Western countries, schooling in Vietnam is generally more affordable, but international schools can be significantly pricier.

Public schools follow the national curriculum in Vietnamese and are the most budget-friendly option, with elementary education now free for citizens. Public school class sizes tend to be large with basic facilities, and private schools offer a mix of Vietnamese and international curricula, smaller class sizes, and better resources. International schools follow globally recognised programmes, making them a preferred choice for expat parents.

Education and Schools in Vietnam

Cost of healthcare in Vietnam

Health insurance is a must when moving to Vietnam, as public healthcare is typically considered unsuitable for expat needs. While the government has invested in upgrading facilities, public hospitals still face issues such as overcrowding and limited resources, especially in rural areas. Urban facilities have improved considerably, but quality varies significantly from one hospital to another.

Conversely, private healthcare in Vietnam is excellent, widely accessible, and relatively affordable compared to Western countries. Many private hospitals have internationally trained doctors, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff, making them the preferred choice for expats.

Your health insurance costs will depend on factors such as age, lifestyle, and the level of coverage you choose. Currently, there’s no form of public health insurance available to expats in Vietnam, so private coverage is necessary. Most employers provide some form of health insurance, but you might want to opt for additional private coverage to ensure access to top-tier medical care. 

Healthcare and Medical Insurance in Vietnam

Cost of living in Vietnam chart

Note that prices may vary depending on location and service provider, and the table below is based on average prices for Ho Chi Minh City in May 2025.